[Psychological support for road accident participants: the program implementation outcome].

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Traumatology
• Public Health

Background:

• Road accidents are significant traumatic events with common psychological consequences like emotional disorders, cognitive deficits, and stress symptoms.
• These consequences can impair social relationships, work performance, and overall well-being.
• Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a potential outcome of experiencing or witnessing road traffic accidents.

Purpose of the Study:

• To discuss a psychological support program for road accident participants in Wroclaw.
• To outline the theoretical underpinnings and implementation of this support program.
• To present findings and evaluation results of the program, with proposals for future development.

Main Methods:

• The program integrates theoretical knowledge (lectures) with practical application (exercises) based on theories by Selye, Lazarus, and Everly & Rosenfeld.
• Key areas of focus include managing anxiety, cognitive processes, relaxation techniques, assertiveness training, and kinesiology.
• The program is accessible to all involved in road accidents (victims, perpetrators, witnesses) and their families.

Main Results:

• The psychological support program is both interventionist, addressing immediate post-accident stress, and preventive, aiming to improve overall road safety.
• The program combines educational elements with therapeutic processes, emphasizing self-responsibility.
• Evaluation surveys were conducted to assess the program's effectiveness.

Conclusions:

• Psychological support is crucial for individuals affected by road accidents.
• The program demonstrated intervention and preventive benefits, contributing to psychological well-being and road safety.
• Further development of psychological operations for road accident participants is recommended.